Initial Price. Quality hot tubs can cost anywhere between $3,000 and $16,000+. Most hot tub dealers offer financing plans, with repayment periods between 36 and 60 months. Hot tub prices increase based on quality, performance, size, and design. Keep in mind that it’s well worth it to pay more up front for a spa that will be used by a lot of guests at a vacation home. There are some downsides to buying an inexpensive spa, including that you’ll have to replace it more often since it won’t withstand the elements. Additionally, low-quality parts will wear out quickly. While it can take 3-5 years to pay off a hot tub, it will last a decade or more if well maintained.

Energy Usage. Running a hot tub will increase your monthly utility bill. The new amount will depend on location, hot tub size, energy prices, and other factors. Purchasing a quality hot tub with good insulation will help keep utility costs low.

Cleaning and Maintenance. The amount of time and money it will take to keep your spa water clean depends on the water care system you choose. High-tech systems such as the FreshWater® salt system can greatly reduce your maintenance needs and ongoing costs. If you’re not always on-site at your rental property, consider investing in a service plan from your local dealer. These plans can roughly cost between $125 and $260 per month, though actual charges will depend on the dealer. A service plan guarantees your spa will always be well-maintained and in ideal condition for your guests.

Repairs. Even with the best service plan, sometimes wear and tear will require repair or replacement of hot tub components. Spa repair costs depend on the seriousness of the issue, naturally, but low-cost repairs are more common than high-priced repairs. Since a major factor affecting the cost of hot tub repairs is the level of your warranty coverage, it’s critical to purchase a spa with great coverage. If you buy your spa from a reputable manufacturer, the different components will each come with warranty coverage for varying lengths of time. Keeping a close eye on a hot tub at a rental property can greatly reduce repair costs. With a remote spa monitoring system like Connextion™ from Hot Spring, you can track your hot tub’s temperature, usage, and maintenance needs from your tablet or mobile device. The system also notifies both you and your dealer of any spa issues, so they can be handled immediately.

Liability and Insurance. As a vacation property owner, you already have rental liability insurance. Depending on your state and insurer, a new hot tub might or might not be covered under this policy as a standard amenity. If not, you’ll need to extend your coverage, which will likely mean a higher rate. Talk to your insurer to learn more about your specific liability coverage options.